Why the world's eyes are on the US presidential debate

THIS Monday's first presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton will be eagerly watched not just in the United States, but right across the globe. Given the major differences, and the large stakes in play, international audiences are showing a very keen interest in the election outcome.

Part of the reason is the massive international concern about the prospect of the maverick businessman Trump getting elected. However, a deeper factor driving global interest, which also potentially increases the unpredictability of the race, is the high salience of international issues in the campaign.

For instance, a Pew Research Center poll at the beginning of this election year found that 34 per cent of the population believes foreign policy, especially tackling international terrorism, is the biggest challenge facing the country. By contrast, "only" 23 per cent mentioned economic problems.